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The study object was slag from the Balkhash copper smelter, obtained by re-melting anode mud containing nonferrous metals. The process flow for processing these slags includes sintering with Na2SO4, Na2CO3, and coal, followed by soda-alkaline leaching of the sinter and extraction of metals from the solution into marketable products. Since sintering is the main operation providing high selectivity, the composition of the products of this process was studied. The main transformations during sintering were determined, and the optimal parameters were identified. The structures of slags and sintered materials obtained during the experiments were studied by electron-probe microanalysis. Sintering was performed at 600–800 °C. The best results for sulphidization of slag components were obtained at 800 °C; a further increase in temperature leads to the smelting of sinter particles and slows down sulphidization. The optimal quantities of additives, based on the weight of the slag, are Na2SO4—45%, Na2CO3—15%, and reducing agent—41%, with a sintering time of 2 h. These conditions enable the sulphidization of non-ferrous metals in the slag to the entire depth of the polymetallic globules. The distinct concentration of harmful impurities (Ni, As, and Sb) was observed in the fine structure of the polymetallic globules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auraptene (AUT) is widely known to possess both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study attempted to evaluate the protective effects of AUT in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice and to determine the underlying molecular mechanisms. Our results suggest that AUT substantially minimizes the severity and worsening of DSS-induced colitis in mice, indicated by the lengthening of the colon, lower disease activity index, reduced oxidation levels, and attenuated inflammatory factors. Molecular studies revealed that AUT reduces the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), thereby inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors. Additionally, AUT promotes the diversity of the intestinal flora in mice with colitis by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillaceae and lowering the number of harmful bacteria. In conclusion, AUT mitigates DSS-induced colitis by maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier and modulating the levels of the intestinal microbial species. TOC Graphic. Diagram summarizing the study findings. Auraptene mitigates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice by regulating specific intestinal flora and repairing the intestinal barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interactions of polyelectrolyte poly (sodium styrene sulfonate or NaPSS) and anionic surfactants, sodium glycodeoxycholate (SGDC) and sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS), as well as their combination (SGDC + STS) at different mole fraction ratios, were investigated using surface tension analysis. In the SGDC + STS binary mixture, when the amount of NaPSS (0.005–0.03%) increased from α SGDC 0.0 to 1.0, increasing the critical micellization concentration (cmc) of the mixtures. The minimum cmc values were found from 0.833 to 1.480 mmol L−1 in the presence of 0.03% of NaPSS. Clint, Rubingh, Motomura, and Rodenas approaches were used to evaluate the ideal cmc, activity coefficients (fi), interaction parameter (–β), micellar compositions (x), and ideal micellar composition of (xid) of SGDC + STS mixtures. Synergism has been demonstrated by the experimental values of c0m being lower than the ideal values in water. Moreover, by adding NaPSS from 0.005 to 0.03%, the synergism interaction was eliminated and antagonism behavior was developed. The standard Gibb's free energy of micellization ( Δ G m 0) and surface excess (Γ) and surface area per absorbed molecules (Amin) was decreased or increased depending on NaPSS amount in the SGDC + STS mixture with varying a SGDC . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the role of mechano-regulated proteins YAP and TAZ in promoting gut regeneration in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The study found that alterations in mechanotransduction can impact gut regeneration, with mechano-stimulatory drugs aiding regeneration and low mechanical treatments exacerbating gut injury. The researchers also identified the importance of smooth muscle cells' WNT4 in gut regeneration and the role of YAP/TAZ in regulating WNT4 levels. The study suggests that mechanotransduction promotes gut regeneration through the YAP/TAZ-WNT4 signaling axis. [Extracted from the article]

The present work aimed to examine the association between the changes in the surface hydrophobicity and surface activity of soybean protein isolate (SPI) following structural alterations. To this end, the effects of heating, pH modification, ultrasonication, surfactant (SDS, sodium dodecyl sulphate) treatment, alkaline protease hydrolysis, peracetic acid treatment, and acylation on the surface activity and surface hydrophobicity of SPI were investigated. The results demonstrated that the changes in the surface hydrophobicity of SPI could accurately reflect the changes in its surface activity. A strong correlation between surface hydrophobicity and surface activity alterations was noted after the SPI molecules underwent structural modifications. The higher the surface hydrophobicity of the treated SPI, the greater its surface activity. Given that the surface hydrophobicity of SPI reflects the actual distribution of hydrophobic residues on its surface, this parameter can serve as a key indicator for evaluating and predicting changes in the surface activity of SPI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalyst material titanium dioxide (TiO2) and graphene oxide (GO) were used to improve the self-cleaning properties of thin films. The sol–gel spin-coating method was successfully used to synthesize GO/TiO2 thin films. Surface modification was applied to optimize the self-cleaning capabilities by adding several concentrations of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) (0.1 w/v%, 0.2 w/v%, 0.3 w/v%, 0.4 w/v%, and 0.5 w/v%) to the parent solution. The synthesized thin films were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction, UV-visible spectroscopy, water contact angle analysis, and photocatalytic analysis. The AFM and SEM images revealed that as the SDS amount increased, the particles became less agglomerated, and the roughness of the surface reduced from 2.54 × 102 nm to 0.83 × 102 nm. The wettability analysis showed that when SDS increased to 0.4 w/v%, the water contact angle dropped to 15.30°, implying that the thin film exhibits hydrophilic qualities. A decrease in the GO/TiO2 band gap was obtained linearly with the increase in SDS addition from 3.17 eV to 2.75 eV. Finally, the improvement of the surface coating and reduction of the band gap enhanced the photocatalytic activity, which degraded 78.97% of methylene blue, which was obtained by 0.4SDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the researchers evaluated the use of nano-zero-valent iron (nZVI) activated persulfate (PS) for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). The effects of various operating parameters such as initial pH, and dosages of PS, nZVI and citric acid (CA) on the removal rate of RhB were investigated. The results demonstrated that at a PS dosage of 5 mmol·L-1, nZVI dosage of 0.3 g·L-1, 0.1 mmol·L-1 CA, and pH of 5, the degradation rate of RhB was 94.970%. The degradation and kinetic analysis of RhB using micron-scale zero-valent iron (mZVI) and nZVI revealed that nZVI exhibited higher activity with PS due to its smaller particle size. The activation of PS by nZVI is higher compared to mZVI, and the ineffective consumption is half that of the mZVI/PS system, the TOC removal rate increased by 18.65%. Kinetic analysis indicated that under the mentioned reaction conditions, the degradation process followed a pseudo-second-order reaction model, with the highest apparent reaction rate constant (kobs). The researchers also identified active radical species in the nZVI/PS system. Additionally, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was used to detect reaction intermediates and propose a possible degradation pathway for RhB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the critical role of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) mouse models in the appraisal of associated therapeutic drugs, the optimization of the administration method and dosages is of paramount importance. Therefore, UC was induced in mice through the gavage administration of a DSS solution instead of free drinking water. The effects of varying daily dosages (2, 4, 6, and 8 g/kg) and frequencies (once or twice) of administration on the body weight and survival rate of the model mice were evaluated. Concurrently, the inflammatory indicators and tissue sections of the model mice were thoroughly evaluated. The results revealed that when the daily dosage reached 8 g/kg, the dosage exhibited a high level of toxicity, resulting in a high mortality rate among the mice. The DSS administration of 6 g/kg*2 not only elicited conspicuous symptoms, significant weight loss, substantial shortening of the colon, and significant changes in various inflammatory indicators, such as myeloperoxidase (MPO), nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and glutathione (GSH), but it also maintained a high survival rate in the UC mice. The findings from this experiment lay a solid experimental foundation for future research on drugs intended for the treatment of UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, porous poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogels with different pore sizes were fabricated using inorganic non‐metallic porogens by an environmentally friendly method, providing a potential solution for the field of wastewater treatment. PVA hydrogels have gained much attention in the field of wastewater treatment due to their excellent adsorption performance and porous network structure. However, the employment of inorganic non‐metallic salts as porogens for PVA hydrogels has received limited attention so far. In this study, porous PVA hydrogels were prepared by freeze‐thawing and freeze‐drying with sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as porogens. PVA‐Na exhibited denser network structure with the concentration of Na2SO4 solution increased, and the tensile stress was enhanced by about 45 times. Meanwhile, the tensile stress of PVA‐Ca was improved significantly from 0.06 to 1.67 MPa, and the network structure became looser after adding CaCO3. Moreover, a comprehensive investigation was conducted on the adsorption performance of porous PVA hydrogel for Congo red (CR). Finally, five adsorption models were fitted to investigate the adsorption mechanism of porous PVA hydrogels, in which the maximum adsorption capacity of CR by PVA‐Na‐0.5 was predicted to be 215 mg/g by the Langmuir isothermal model fitting. Highlights: The structure of PVA hydrogels was adjusted by Na2SO4 and CaCO3, respectively.The tensile stress of PVA‐Na with dense network structure increased 45 times.Compared to PVA‐FD, swelling equilibrium time of PVA‐Na reduced from 24 to 6 h.Equilibrium swelling rate of PVA‐Ca declined by half in comparison to PVA‐FD.Langmuir isothermal model predicted qmax of 215 mg/g for CR by PVA‐Na‐0.5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to solve the problems of high consumption and cost of zinc powder in the conventional impurity removal method, the purification of copper, cadmium, nickel and cobalt from zinc sulfate solution(containing 30 -- 60 mg/L cadmium, 300 -- 400 mg/L cobalt, and 60 -- 100 mg/L nickel) was achieved by using sodium dimethyl dithiocarbamate. The optimized impurity removal conditions are shown as follows: the dosage of sodium dimethyl dithiocarbamate was 1.5 times the theoretical amount, the dosage of sodium nitrite was 1 times the theoretical amount, the reaction time was 1 h, and the reaction temperature was 75 -- 85 °C. The slag content was 30 kg/m³-liquid. The zinc and cobalt content in slag was about 8% and the cadmium and nickel content was about 1.5%, the loss percent of zinc was 0.02%. The removal efficiency was 99.11% for copper, 99.8% for cadmium, 99.99% for cobalt and 98.94% for nickel. The synchronous removal of copper, cobalt, nickel and cobalt can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hydrogeochemical study of groundwater in Chhotanagpur Plateau, India, was accomplished to evaluate general hydrochemistry, hydrogeochemical processes and quality for irrigation purposes. Samples were collected and analysed for physico-chemical parameters including pH, conductivity and major ions. The analytical results indicate that groundwater is acidic to slightly alkaline. The overall ionic concentration in the area follows the order: Ca2+ > Mg2+> Na+ > K+ > NH4+ > Li+ and HCO3− > Cl− > SO42− > NO3- > F− > PO4−. Rock weathering, in particular carbonate and silicate weathering, determines groundwater hydrochemistry. The bivariate plot of (Ca + Mg) versus (HCO3 + SO4) reveals that the reverse ion exchange process has contributed to the hydrochemistry of the region. Piper diagram reveals that most of the groundwater samples are Ca–HCO3 and mixed Ca–Mg–SO4 type while some samples are Ca–Cl type. The results of the principal component analysis highlight that geological factors determine the characteristics of groundwater. However, anthropogenic activities like urban sewage discharge, chemical and pesticide discharge, and mining activities have a detrimental impact on groundwater quality. Spatial variation in the composite groundwater quality index for irrigation calculated by inverse distance weighted method reveals that the groundwater quality ranges from good to excellent in 16.5% and 83.5% of the samples, respectively. In a few samples, higher concentrations of magnesium, sodium and sulphate make the groundwater unsuitable for irrigation. The study recommends that anthropogenic activities should be carried out properly to ensure the long-term sustainability of groundwater in the area. The findings will be helpful to government officials and policy planners for proper groundwater management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new approach for the thermal reduction of tin dioxide (SnO2) in the carbon/sodium sulfite (Na2SO3) system is demonstrated. The process of tin smelting was experimentally optimized by adjusting the smelting temperature and amounts of the chemical components used for the thermal reduction of SnO2. The numbers obtained are consistent with the thermodynamic characteristics of the system and molar fractions of reactants derived from the proposed mechanism of the SnO2 thermal reduction process. They reveal that the maximum yield of tin is obtained if masses of C, Na2SO3 and SnO2 are approximately in the ratio 1:2:3 and the temperature is set to 1050 °C. The key role in the suggested mechanism is the thermal decomposition of Na2SO3. It was deduced from the available experimental data that the produced sulfur dioxide undergoes carbothermic reduction to carbonyl sulfide—an intermediate product involved in the bulk reduction of SnO2. Replacing sodium sulfite with sodium sulfate, sodium sulfide and even elemental sulfur practically terminated the production of metallic tin. The kinetic analysis was focused on the determination of the reaction orders for the two crucial reactants involved in the smelting process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work sought to study the mother water of the process and point out alternatives so that the water present in this solution can be recovered and the possibility of recycling it can be analyzed. The following alternatives were adopted: the evaporation of water without reaching the saturation point of the mother water and evaporation beyond the saturation point. For the first case, flash distillation was used to remove unwanted components, followed by an evaporation process. The second case was studied employing salt crystallization, for which crystallizers were used. This study was conducted with Aspen Plus® v12 software, which can represent the desired route, in addition to having data and tools that are suitable for the process modeling and simulation. For the evaporation without crystallization, it was noticed that it was possible to remove 23.89% of the water from the mother water. For the crystallization case, it was found that the mother water solution had dissolved ammonium sulfate for crystallization; however, it was necessary to first precipitate sodium sulfate. In the crystallization of sodium sulfate, it was possible to remove 85.62% of vapor from the mother water solution, containing water, ammonia, and carbon dioxide, thus inferring the possibility of recycling this current to the process. This study shows that it is not appropriate to insert evaporation equipment without thinking about the precipitation of by-products since there would be an increase in the price of the route, with little raw material for reuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this in vivo study was to compare total protein present in the salivary films (F) and acquired enamel pellicle (AEP) on eroded and non-eroded surfaces in patients suffering from GORD symptoms with and without GORD diagnosis (GORD, No-GORD). Thirty-nine patients suffering from GORD symptoms and erosive tooth wear on lower first molars and an unaffected posterior occlusal surface in the same quadrant were recruited from Guy's hospital, London. Salivary film and AEP were collected from the eroded and uneroded occlusal surfaces, using 0.5% sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS)-soaked filter papers. Total protein concentration was analysed using bicinchoninic acid assay (BCA). Statistical analysis was conducted using Shapiro–Wilk, ANOVA, and Tukey's tests (p < 0.05), comparing four GDS sample types and GORD vs. No-GORD groups. The level of significance was set as p < 0.05. Data were compared between eroded and uneroded surfaces in the same patient with GORD symptoms, as well as between those with or without a GORD diagnosis (GORD, No-GORD). The AEP total protein concentration from the eroded [2.17 (0.49) mg/mL] and uneroded surfaces [2.24 (0.66) mg/mL] of the GORD group were statistically significantly lower than those on eroded [3.27 (1.01) mg/mL] and uneroded [3.33 (1.57) mg/mL] surfaces in the No-GORD group (p = 0.007) (p = 0.008), respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed for film and AEP between eroded and uneroded surfaces (p > 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to gather additional on the impact of perlite on both the mechanical properties and resistance to chemical attacks of materials. Various combinations ,incorporating perlite in the form of cement additions, were examined. Five different substitution rates of 10 %, 15 %, 20 %, 25 %,and 30 % of cement with powder perlite were utilized for comparison with plain cement. The findings indicate that the interaction between lime,silica,and alumina in powder perlite results in the formation of several hydrates, such as calcium silicate hydrate, hydrated calcium aluminates,and hydrated gelhenite.Our research focuses on the development of natural perlite from maghnia as a potentially pozzolanic supplementary cementing material. In evaluating the pozzolanicity of this material, it was observed that external aggressions, such as chlorides, CO2, and chemical attacks, can compromise the physical and mechanical properties of concrete,affecting its long-term durability. However,natural pozzolans like pelite exhibit a positive influence on the durability of mortars against sulphate attacks. Test results revealed specimens with no apparent degradation, indicating that sulphate ions in the solution did not adversely affect perlite-based mortars. There is a growing preference for mineral additives with lower production costs than cement. Consequently, the optimal mixture was determined to be one containing 25 % perlite. However, cement pastes and mortars incorporating up to 20 % perlite demonstrated satisfactory physical and mechanical properties, comparable to materials without perlite. The investigation into the perlite materials used in conjunction with cement suggests the potential for sustainable concrete. Experimental results indicate that natural perlite powder from Maghnia can be considered a good pozzolanic material, suitable as a mineral admixture in cement production.

Drag reducers are indispensable components of slickwater fracturing fluids and play a pivotal role in the reconstitution of unconventional oil and gas reservoirs. Water‐in‐water emulsion (W/W) drag reducers have garnered significant attention owing to their rapid dissolution and environmentally benign properties. The solubility and viscosity enhancing ability of W/W drag reducers were further enhanced by synthesizing a novel W/W drag reducer through dispersion polymerization, thereby meeting the requirements of real‐time mixed fracturing construction technology. The solubility, viscosity enhancement, and synthesis state of the synthetic drag reducer were employed as evaluation criteria, whereby the synthetic systems underwent screening and optimization of the synthesis conditions. The final synthetic conditions were determined as follows: the monomer (AM and DMC) had a total mass concentration of 25 wt%, with an AM to DMC molar ratio of 95:5. The dispersion medium (sodium sulfate and sodium chloride) had a total mass concentration of 12 wt%, with a sodium sulfate to sodium chloride mass ratio of 1:2. The dispersion stabilizer PVP K60 had a mass concentration of 7 wt%. The initiator had a total mass concentration of 0.05 wt%, with an ammonium persulfate to sodium bisulfite mass ratio of 1:1. The reaction was conducted at 35°C and a stirring speed of 500 r min−1 for a duration of 8 h. The successful synthesis of the polymer was demonstrated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Environmental scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy have characterized that the drag reducer has good viscosity enhancement potential. The performance evaluation results show that the solid content of drag reducer was 32.68%, and the residue content was 11.70 mg L−1. The viscosity enhancement rate of 1.3 wt% drag reducer was 93.7%. The dissolution time of 0.1 wt% drag reducer was only 25 s. The drag‐reduction rate of drag reducer reached 73.52%. Experimental results have proved that the drag reducer has the advantages of instant solubility, appreciable viscosity enhancement and drag‐reduction efficiency, fully meeting the real‐time mixing fracturing construction conditions, improving construction efficiency, and reducing construction costs. We expect that this study can broaden the application of W/W drag reducers in unconventional reservoir and provide a theoretical basis for field applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diallyl trisulfide (DATS), a sulphur‐containing compound isolated from the medicinal food plant garlic, has been previously reported to attenuate experimental colitis induced by either dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) or 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) in mice; however, the underlying mechanism remains to be identified. In this study, we deciphered the key mechanism by which DATS alleviates ulcerative colitis (UC). We showed that oral administration of DATS for 10 consecutive days greatly restrained the infiltration of macrophages and the pathological changes in colonic tissues of mice with DSS‐induced colitis. DATS treatment notably dampened the content of IL‐1β and IL‐18 and suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation in colon. Mechanistically, DATS effectively diminished the generation of ROS in macrophages. The suppressive effect of DATS on the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and downregulation of IL‐18 and IL‐1β levels was blunted by xanthine oxidase. Further studies revealed that DATS inhibited NF‐κB pathway activation by suppressing the expression of Trx‐1, thereby inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Trx‐1 overexpression and interference in macrophages promoted and diminished NLRP3 inflammasome activation, respectively. In summary, garlic and its main active ingredient DATS have potentials to prevent and treat UC, and DATS functions by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation via Trx‐1/ROS pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the encapsulation and controlled release of perfume within micellar systems. We explored how perfume‐surfactant interactions and micelle structure influence fragrance delivery. Two mixed‐micelle systems, one with branched‐tail and the other with linear‐tail surfactants, were subjected to varying perfume concentrations, dilution, and time. Using small‐angle neutron scattering (SANS), gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS), and statistical analysis, we determined that micelle size and shape are significantly affected by perfume content and dilution. While both systems exhibited similar trends, the branched‐tail system uniquely formed a lamellar phase at higher perfume levels. Our findings reveal a strong correlation between micelle geometry and headspace perfume concentration, highlighting the role of surfactant tail structure. This research provides fundamental insights into perfume‐micelle interactions, with potential applications in materials science and active ingredient delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Baghdad Science Journal is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Food & Fermentation Industries is the property of Food & Fermentation Industries and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Owing to the diverse biological application, photophysical behaviour of Hoechst 33258 (H33258) is an important topic in biophysical research. Here, we have reported the photophysical behavior of H33258 in model biomembrane mimicking micellar microenvironment. In order to understand the molecular mechanism of the interaction of H33258 with micelles, we have used cationic (Hexadecetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB)), anionic (sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS)), and non‐ionic (t‐octylphenoxypolyoxyethanol, Triton‐X100 (TX 100)) micelles. From the steady‐state emission study the evaluated apparent binding constant (Kb) values for the complex formation between H33258 and CTAB, SDS and TX 100 micelle were (1.45±0.42)×105, (31.95±4.89)×105 and (3.10±0.73)×105 M−1, respectively. Thus, it was found that the Kb value was greater in the case of anionic micelle than non‐ionic and cationic micelles. Such differences in Kb values were due to the electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bond formation between the probe molecule and micelles. In addition, time‐resolved fluorescence decay and time‐resolved fluorescence anisotropy studies were performed to understand the dynamical behavior of H33258 in presence of micelles. The interaction of H33258 with micelles might be useful to study the structure and dynamics of different bio‐membranes and to formulate new drug delivery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractColorectal cancer (CRC) poses a significant global health burden, being the third most prevalent cancer and the second most significant contributor to cancer-related deaths worldwide. Preventive strategies are crucial to combat this rising incidence. 6-shogaol, derived from ginger, has shown promise in preventing and treating various cancers. This study investigated the preventive effects of 6-shogaol on azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced CRC in mice. Forty male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into control, 6-shogaol, AOM + DSS, and 6-shogaol + AOM + DSS. Mice in the control group received corn oil for 16 weeks, while those in the 6-Shogaol group were administered 20 mg/kg of 6-shogaol for 16 weeks. The AOM + DSS group received a single intraperitoneal dose (ip) of 10 mg/kg of AOM, followed by three cycles of 2.5% DSS in drinking water. The 6-shogaol + AOM + DSS group received both 6-shogaol for 16 weeks and a single ip of 10 mg/kg of AOM, followed by three cycles of 2.5% DSS in drinking water. The AOM + DSS-treated mice exhibited reduced food consumption, colon weight, and colon length, along with increased tumor formation. Co-administration of 6-shogaol effectively reversed these changes, inhibiting CRC development. Histopathological analysis revealed protective effects of 6-shogaol against colonic insults and modulation of inflammatory responses. 6-shogaol significantly reduced Carcinoembryonic antigen and Kiel 67 levels, indicating inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. Mechanistically, 6-shogaol promoted apoptosis by upregulating protein 53 and caspase-3 expression, and it effectively restored the balance of the Wingless-related integration site signaling pathway by regulating β-catenin and adenomatous polyposis coli levels. Moreover, 6-shogaol demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, reducing myeloperoxidase, Tumor necrosis factor alpha, and cyclooxygenase-2 levels in AOM/DSS-treated mice. Additionally, 6-shogaol restored redox homeostasis by reducing lipid peroxidation and nitrosative stress and enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities. The findings suggest that 6-shogaol inhibits cell proliferation, induces apoptosis, regulates Wnt signaling, suppresses inflammation, and restores redox homeostasis, providing comprehensive insights into its potential therapeutic benefits for CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to experimentally investigate the process of chloride binding and its sulfate-induced release in cementitious materials. The cementitious materials were replaced with hardened cement paste particles (HCPs) with water-to-cement ratios (w/c) of 0.35 and 0.45. A long-term immersion experiment of HCPs in 0.1 M sodium chloride solution was performed to investigate its chloride-binding capacity, and then it was immersed in sodium sulfate solutions with concentrations of 0.1 and 0.5 M to explore the release of chloride binding induced by sulfates. Silver nitrate titration and quantitative X-ray diffraction (QXRD) were used to measure the concentration of free chlorides in the solutions and the content of bound chlorides in HCPs, respectively. The results show that there is a higher chloride-binding capacity in HCPs with a w/c ratio of 0.45 compared to 0.35, and the content of chemically bound chlorides is associated with the formation and decomposition of Friedel's and Kuzel's salts in HCPs. The presence of sulfates can easily result in the release of bound chlorides in Friedel's salt, but it cannot cause a complete release of bound chlorides in Kuzel's salt. Physically bound chlorides are more easily released by sulfates than chemically bound chlorides, and a high w/c ratio or sulfate concentration can increase the release rate of bound chlorides in HCPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quaternary ammonium complex of (2‐(methylthio)indeno[1,2,3‐gh]phenanthridin‐1‐yl)(phenyl)methanone (QAC) has been employed as a new and simple fluorescence sensor for detection of the anionic surfactant; sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), through fluorescence light‐up. The generation of electrostatic interaction and associated intermolecular arrangement between the probe and anionic surfactant is responsible for the fluorescence enhancement and subsequent selectivity towards the anionic surfactant. Concurrently, the probe was unaltered by the presence of cationic and non‐ionic systems. Utilizing this property, we were able to construct a facile and efficient method for the detection of anionic surfactants, featuring LOD values up to 1.1 μM concentrations in dimethylsulfoxide solvent. The light‐up detection was also confirmed via lifetime studies, with superior increments in average lifetime decay values (0.33–2.7 ns). The practical/real‐time applications of probe QAC as a sensor have also been investigated and successfully demonstrated via its ability to detect anionic surfactants from commercially available home usage products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analytical method was established for the simultaneous determination of 29 pesticides in litchi by a high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF/MS) technique combined with an optimized QuEChERS procedure. The samples were extracted by acetonitrile and the acetonitrile supernatant was collected for purification after salting-out (magnesium sulfate anhydrous and sodium chloride) and centrifugation.Under the optimized chromatographic and mass spectrometric conditions, the data were collected by electrospray ionization (ESI) sources in positive and negative ion modes. The calibration curves of 29 pesticides showed good linearity in a concentration range of 0.001-0.2 mg/L (R²>0.99). The average recoveries were 70.2%-102.4% at three spiked levels (0.01, 0.1, 0.50 mg/kg), while the relative standard deviations (RSD) were 2.4%-6.2%. The limits of detection and limits of quantification ranged from 0.1 μg/kg to 3 μg/kg and 0.3 μg/kg to 10 μg/kg, respectively. This method was a simple and efficient method with high sensitivity and precision and had practical value for the rapid detection of residues of 29 pesticides in litchi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of Green banana (GB) starch in prebiotic foods to address health problems such as diabetes. It is modified by phosphate cross‐linking to increase the resistant starch content, improve functional properties, and reduce digestible starch consumption. The starch is modified using a mixture of sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP) and sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) with 6 to 12 wt%ratios in the presence of sodium sulfate. The results showed an increase in phosphorus content from 0.18% to 0.45% corresponding to the increase in sodium trimetaphosphate/sodium tripolyphosphate ratios. Resistant starch reached 60 wt% after increasing the concentration of phosphate agent above 10 wt% and rapidly digestible starch decreased significantly. Accordingly, the physicochemical properties of starch changed significantly. Phosphate cross‐linking led to disruption of the crystalline structure of starch granules and fragmentation, reducing enthalpy and increasing gelatinization temperature. The oil and water absorption and freeze‐thaw stability of treated starch increased. While water absorption and solubility index of starch decreased significantly as the result of phosphate cross‐linking. Modified starch is used for the production of rice noodles. From 10 to 30 wt% of 10P modified starch mixed, cooking fracture rate is not more than 10% and resistant starch content is over 41 wt%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a persistent inflammatory condition that specifically targets the colon and rectum. Existing therapies fail to adequately address the clinical requirements of people suffering from this ailment. Despite the acknowledged potential of nanomedicines in the field of anti-inflammatory treatment, their widespread use in clinical settings is impeded by their expensive nature and the uncertainty surrounding their safety profiles. This study illustrates that two naturally occurring phytochemicals, Costunolide (COS) and Glycyrrhizic acid (GA), form carrier-free, multifunctional spherical nanoparticles (NPs) through noncovalent interactions, such as π–π stacking and hydrogen bonding. The COS-GA NPs displayed a synergistic anti-inflammatory effect, providing much more evidently improved therapeutic benefits for dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced UC mice due to more effective reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress than did equal dosages of COS or GA used alone. In addition, COS-GA NPs have biocompatibility and biosafety properties unique to them. This study will serve as affirmation of the potential of COS-GA NPs as innovative natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities and also such agents as drug discovery in UC, leading possibly to better outcomes in people living with this disabling condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate risks of Japanese Kampo medicine and its effects on risk assessment of pregnancy of traditional Chinese medicine ( TCM) in China by analyzing risks of Japanese Kampo medicine on pregnancy and lactation in drug instructions, so as to provide reference for further development of the risk assessment of pregnancy and lactation of TCM in China. METHODS: According to the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) platform, 148 kinds of Japanese Kampo medicine related drug instructions were collected and sorted out, the related statements during pregnancy and lactation were analyzed, and the Japanese Kampo medicine and TCM components with drug risks were evaluated. Additionally, potential risks of pregnancy and lactation of Japanese Kampo medicine were evaluated with Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China (Volume 1, 2020 edition), Pharmacovigilance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Theory on the Nature of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Based on Japanese Kampo components during pregnancy, the risk assessment of 505 Chinese patent medicines during pregnancy was carried out to analyze the effects on the pregnancy risk of Chinese patent medicines. RESULTS: Of the 148 kinds of Japanese Kampo medicines, there were 39 with risks on pregnancy. The risk components of TCM in pregnancy included Radix rhei et rhizome, Cortex Moutan, Aconiti lateralis radix praeparata, Persicae semen, Achyranthis bidentatae radix, mirabilite and Carthami flos, mainly due to their own toxicity and effects on abortion and premature delivery. Among the lactation-risk Kampo medicines, there were 18 medicines that were prone to cause diarrhea in newborns due to the presence of Radix rhei et rhizome. According to the evaluation of Chinese classics, there were 93 kinds of potential risks of Japanese Kampo medicines. Based on Japanese Kampo risk components, a total of 59 kinds of 505 TCM had potential risks during pregnancy, accounting for 17. 1% of the 345 unlabeled contraindicated drugs during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: Risks of Japanese Kampo medicine on pregnancy and lactation are evaluated based on TCM components. The methods of risk statements on special populations of Kampo medicine can provide a reference for development of TCM in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Phosphogypsum is a by-product of phosphoric acid production, the basis of phosphate fertilizers. Environmental problems of phosphogypsum waste are of concern, including due to the presence of radium-226 and heavy metals. Purpose. To study the effect of molar ratio on the conversion of sodium sulfate and potassium chloride obtained from phosphogypsum. Methodology. Sodium sulfate and potassium chloride solutions were mixed in a molar ratio of 1:4 and stirred at 50°C for 30 min ("MS-H280-Pro"). The temperature was maintained at 50°C. The SO₃ content was determined gravimetrically, K₂O and Na₂O - by flame photometry, Cl⁻ ions - by titrimetric method. Originally: The effect of molar ratio on the conversion of potassium chloride with sodium sulfate was revealed. Findings. Optimal conditions for conversion were found: molar ratio 1:6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of intra-articular Hyaluronic acid (HA) and Chondroitin sulfate (CS) supplementation (Hialurom® Hondro (HH)) on pain symptoms and joint mobility. In total, 60 mg/mL sodium hyaluronate and 90 mg/mL CS were administered to 21 patients (17 females and 4 males) respecting the in-force requirements, excluding patients with some specific comorbidities. In addition to the clinical study (where the pain intensity (severity) and joint mobility were assessed), rheological characterization was conducted evaluating the following parameters: elastic modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″) oscillatory frequency (fc) at 0.5 Hz and 2.5 Hz, crossover frequency (fc), relaxation time (λ) where it was noticed that the addition of chondroitin sulfate (CS) to sodium hyaluronate (SH) significantly enhances and improves the viscoelastic properties, particularly at higher shear frequencies. A significant decrease in pain intensity felt by the subjects was found, from 7.48 (according to Wong–Baker scale)—pain close to 8 (the patient is unable to perform most activities), to more reduced values of 5.86—at 6 weeks after injection, 4.81—at 3 months after injection, and 5.24—at 6 months after injection, improvements in symptoms was fast and durable. Data related to the evolution of joint mobility show that at 6 weeks after injection, the mobility of joints increased by 17.8% and at 6 months by 35.61%. No serious adverse events were reported with undesired effects so that they would impose additional measures. Better resistance to enzymatic degradation and free radicals could be expected from the synergic combination of sodium hyaluronate and chondroitin sodium sulfate, this having a special importance for the patients, granting them the ability to perform more ample movements and reducing dependency on attendants, thus increasing quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the potential mechanism of action of Tong-Xie-Yao-Fang (TXYF) on inflammation-related intestinal fibrosis in mice. In addition, to examine dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) induction and the stimulation of human intestinal fibroblasts (CCD-18Co) by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Methods: Chronic colitis in C57BL/6 mice was induced by administering 2 % DSS and TXYF extract (11.2 g/kg per day). An intestinal fibrosis cell model was constructed by stimulating CCD-18Co cells with TGF-β1 (10 ng/mL). The status and weight loss of colitis of the mice was assessed by Disease Activity Index (DAI) while colonic tissue injury and fibrosis were assessed using hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining and Masson's trichrome staining. Relative expression levels of corticotrophin-releasing hormone receptor 2 (CRH-R2) and Interleukin 6 (IL-6)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in colon tissues and CCD-18Co cells were determined using Western blot. A cell model of intestinal fibrosis was constructed by stimulating CCD-18Co cells with TGF-β1 (10 ng/mL). At the same time, the cells were subjected to the intervention of TXYF drug-containing serum (TXYF-DS). Results: TXYF significantly improve the pathological changes, weight loss, and DAI score of colon tissue in DSS induced colitis mice (p < 0.05). The expression levels of IL-6 and p-STAT3 were significantly reduced, while the expression level of CRH-R2 was upregulated in the mouse colon tissue (p < 0.05). At the cellular level, TXYF-DS intervention significantly reduced cell mortality and mitigated the degree of cell fibrosis (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the expression level of CRH-R2 was up-regulated while that of IL-6 and p-STAT3 were down-regulated. Conclusion: TXYF ameliorates chronic intestinal fibrosis in colitis-afflicted mice by restricting IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway whilst upregulating CRH-R2 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae are a valuable source of lipids, proteins, and pigments, but there are challenges in large-scale production, especially in harvesting. Existing methods lack proven efficacy and cost-effectiveness. However, flocculation, an energy-efficient technique, is emerging as a promising solution. Integrating surfactants enhances microalgal harvesting and disruption simultaneously, reducing processing costs. This study investigated cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB), and sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) for harvesting Tetraselmis sp. strains (75LG and 46NLG). CTAB exhibits superior results, with 88% harvesting efficiency at 1500 and 2000 mg L−1 for 75LG and 46NLG, respectively, for 60 min of sedimentation—thus being able to reduce the operating time. Beyond evaluating harvesting efficiency, our study explored the kinetics of the process; the modified Gompertz model led to the best fit. Furthermore, the largest kinetic constants were observed with CTAB, thus highlighting its efficacy in optimising the microalgal harvesting process. With the incorporation of the suggested enhancements, which should be addressed in future work, CTAB could hold the potential to optimise microalgal harvesting for cost-effective and sustainable large-scale production, eventually unlocking the commercial potential of microalgae for biodiesel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the synthesis of N-(p-toluenesulfonyl)imidazole (TsIm) using the bio-renewable solvent 2-MeTHF. TsIm is a versatile reagent with various applications, including reactions in aqueous media, one-pot synthetic methodology, and less hazardous chemical synthesis. However, the traditional preparation of TsIm does not adhere to the principles of green chemistry. The authors propose a greener methodology using 2-MeTHF as the solvent, which resulted in high yields of TsIm. Density Functional Theory (DFT) studies were also conducted to compare the properties of TsIm with other sulfonyl imidazole reagents. Overall, this study provides a more environmentally friendly approach to synthesizing TsIm. [Extracted from the article]

The study was to investigate the influence of the addition of sea vegetable (gim) flakes on physicochemical, nutritional, and antioxidative properties and stability over storage of salt-reduced fried fish cake. The addition of gim flakes at 1%, 2%, and 3% (w/w) in fried fish cake reduced the salt content by 13%, 15%, and 18%, respectively. Fried fish cakes prepared with gim flakes demonstrated lower fat and sodium content and higher protein, phenolic content, and antioxidative properties. The results of these studies demonstrated that the beneficial value and overall quality of fried fish cake can be improved through the addition of gim. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an immunologically complex disorder involving genetic, microbial, and environmental risk factors. Its global burden has continued to rise since industrialization, with epidemiological studies suggesting that ambient particulate matter (PM) in air pollution could be a contributing factor. Prior animal studies have shown that oral PM10 exposure promotes intestinal inflammation in a genetic IBD model and that PM2.5 inhalation exposure can increase intestinal levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. PM10 and PM2.5 include ultrafine particles (UFP), which have an aerodynamic diameter of <0.10 μm and biophysical and biochemical properties that promote toxicity. UFP inhalation, however, has not been previously studied in the context of murine models of IBD. Here, we demonstrated that ambient PM is toxic to cultured Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells and examined whether UFP inhalation affected acute colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate and 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid. C57BL/6J mice were exposed to filtered air (FA) or various types of ambient PM reaerosolized in the ultrafine size range at ~300 μg/m3, 6 h/day, 3–5 days/week, starting 7–10 days before disease induction. No differences in weight change, clinical disease activity, or histology were observed between the PM and FA-exposed groups. In conclusion, UFP inhalation exposure did not exacerbate intestinal inflammation in acute, chemically-induced colitis models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current work, the analyti cal static gravimetric technique was used to assess the solubilities of DL-α-amino butyric acid and DL-valine in an aqueous binary solvent mixture of sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) under equilibrium saturation conditions in between temperature range 288.15 and 308.15 K. Different thermodynamic factors along with transfer Gibbs energetics and entropies under standard conditions were estimated by using computational as well as theoretical method by using the experimental solubilities. Several modes of interactions that occur during solvation were also explained. The manner that solvent molecules of solute amino acids are surrounded in the aforementioned medium employed during the process is taken into consideration. Amino acids become more soluble as the temperature rises. The study also helps us to reach the conclusion that physical properties of electrolyte (Na2SO4), mixed solvent, and the size of the amino acids' molecules are the main governing factors for the chemical stability as well as other thermodynamic and physical property like solubility of solute amino acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An excessive inflammatory response plays an important role in pathological tissue damage associated with pathogen infection and tumorigenesis. Blood POZ-containing gene type 2 (BPOZ-2), an adaptor protein for the E3 ubiquitin ligase scaffold protein CUL3, is a negative regulator of the inflammatory response. In this study, we investigated the pathophysiological functions of BPOZ-2 in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colon injury and diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver damage. Our results indicated that BPOZ-2 deficiency increased IL-1β induction after DSS and DEN treatment. In addition, BPOZ-2-deficient mice were more susceptible to DSS-induced colitis. Notably, BPOZ-2 deficiency aggravated DEN-induced acute liver injury. These results revealed that BPOZ-2 protected against pathological tissue damage with a dysregulated inflammatory response. • BPOZ-2-deficient mice are more susceptible to DSS-induced colitis and aggravates DEN-induced acute liver injury. • BPOZ-2 deficiency increases the inflammatory response in response to DSS and DEN treatment. • BPOZ-2 is a negative regulator of the inflammatory response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document provides a detailed description of the synthesis and characterization of various compounds, specifically pyrimidine-fused benzothiazoles. The compounds are synthesized using a Pd-catalyzed annulation reaction and are characterized using spectroscopic techniques such as NMR and ESI-HRMS. The yields, physical properties, and spectral data of each compound are provided. The document also includes supporting information and a graph, and the authors of the document are listed at the end. This information can be valuable for researchers studying the synthesis and properties of these compounds. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: To investigate the therapeutic efficiency of a novel drink termed "Ferment" in cases of ulcerative colitis (UC) and its influence on the gut microbiota. Method: In this study, we developed a complex of mixed fruit juice and lactic acid bacteria referred to as Ferment. Ferment was fed to mice for 35 days, before inducing UC with Dextran Sulfate Sodium Salt. We subsequently investigated the gut microbiome composition using 16S rRNA sequencing. Result: After Ferment treatment, mouse body weight increased, and animals displayed less diarrhea, reduced frequency of bloody stools, and reduced inflammation in the colon. Beneficial bacteria belonging to Ileibacterium, Akkermansia, and Prevotellacea were enriched in the gut after Ferment treatment, while detrimental organisms including Erysipelatoclostridium, Dubosiella, and Alistipes were reduced. Conclusion: These data place Ferment as a promising dietary candidate for enhancing immunity and protecting against UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black rice bran (BRB) is well-known for its high antioxidant activity and its pivotal role in preventing colon cancer. The present study aims to investigate the effects of BRB administration on BALB/C mice induced with azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sodium sulphate (DSS). The 24 mice were divided into three groups: the group induced by colon cancer (C+), the group induced by cancer and given the BRB diet (C+BRB), and the normal group (C−). Both the C− and C+ groups were given a standard AIN-93 M diet containing cellulose fiber. After 16 weeks, the mice were anesthetized, and the colonic tissue was identified for nodule distribution, histopathological observation, and mRNA expression analysis of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), caspase-3, and caspase-8 genes using qRT PCR technique. Nodule distribution in the C+BRB group showed a significant decrease compared to the C+ group, with 1.65 ± 0.71 nodule/cm2 vs. 5.73 ± 2.93 nodule/cm2. Then, the colon weight was significantly decreased in the C+BRB group, at 0.19 ± 0.04 (g) compared to 0.25 ± 0.03 (g) in the C+ group. Also, the BRB diet in the C+BRB group significantly decreased PCNA mRNA expression compared to the C+ group, with values of 0.58 ± 0.09-fold change vs. 5.22 ± 0.80-fold change. Conversely, increased the mRNA expression of caspase-3 (0.91 ± 0.20-fold change vs. 0.36 ± 0.15-fold change) and caspase-8 (0.51 ± 0.18-fold change vs. 0.13 ± 0.31-fold change). In conclusion, administration of BRB inhibited the rate of cancer development by suppressing cancer cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to investigate the influence of chitosan particles loaded with sodium sulfate on the structure and properties of the gelatin films by using gelatin as the film-forming matrix and adding chitosan particles loaded with sodium sulfate to prepare composite gelatin films. The thickness, hydration properties, barrier properties, mechanical properties, optical properties, thermal stability and oxidation resistance of the gelatin films were measured, and its structure was characterized. The results showed that the addition of chitosan particles loaded with sodium sulfate significantly decreased the thickness (P<0.05), significantly increased the swelling rate (P<0.05), decreased the dissolution rate from 79.41% to 18.21%, increased the tensile strength from 79.10 MPa to 128.96 MPa, increased the opacity from 3.75 to 6.77, improved the thermal stability, and increased the DPPH radical scavenging capacity from 14.41% to 65.05% of the gelatin films. However, there were no significant changes in the water vapor permeability and elongation at break of the gelatin films. In addition, there was a high compatibility between chitosan particles loaded with sodium sulfate and gelatin molecules, and the addition of chitosan particles loaded with sodium sulfate changed the structure of gelatin films. In conclusion, the incorporation of chitosan particles loaded with sodium sulfate can change the structure of gelatin films to some extent and improve the properties of gelatin films. This study provides theoretical guidance and data reference for the preparation and application of antioxidant composite gelatin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the durability of mortars subjected to sulfate solutions (specifically Na2SO4 and MgSO4). The effectiveness of cement replacement materials (CRMs) such as calcined kaolinite clay (C), high CaO fly ash (F), and limestone powder (L) in multi-binder systems was studied. The pastes' microstructure, phase assemblage, and elemental profiles were examined. The results showed that mortars containing calcined kaolinite clay and high CaO fly ash (C30F15) had the lowest expansion when exposed to Na2SO4 and MgSO4. This was caused by the decreased portlandite and expansive products, improved mortar's compressive strength, and refined pore structure (smallest pore size and lowest pore volume). However, the use of the CRMs, especially when calcined kaolinite clay was combined with fly ash or limestone powder, raised the weight loss and surface deterioration of mortars in a MgSO4 solution because of the lowered pH in the pore solution and formation of MSH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding seasonal variations in water quality is crucial for effective management of freshwater rivers amidst changing environmental conditions. This study employed water quality index (WQI), metal index (MI), and pollution indices (PI) to comprehensively assess water quality and pollution levels in Nyabarongo River of Rwanda. A dynamic driver-pressure-state-impact-response model was used to identify factors influencing quality management. Over 4 years (2018–2021), 69 samples were collected on a monthly basis from each of the six monitoring stations across the Nyabarongo River throughout the four different seasons. Maximum WQI values were observed during dry long (52.90), dry short (21.478), long rain (93.66), and short rain (37.4) seasons, classified according to CCME 2001 guidelines. Ion concentrations exceeded WHO standards, with dominant ions being HCO 3 - and Mg 2 + . Variations in water quality were influenced by factors such as calcium bicarbonate dominance in dry seasons and sodium sulfate dominance in rainy seasons. Evaporation and precipitation processes primarily influenced ionic composition. Metal indices (MI) exhibited wide ranges: long dry (0.2–433.0), short dry (0.1–174.3), long rain (0.1–223.7), and short rain (0.3–252.5). The hazard index values for Cu2+, Mn4+, Zn2+, and Cr3+ were below 1, ranging from 8.89E − 08 to 7.68E − 07 for adults and 2.30E − 07 to 5.02E − 06 for children through oral ingestion, and from 6.68E − 10 to 5.07E − 07 for adults and 6.61E − 09 to 2.54E − 06 for children through dermal contact. With a total carcinogenic risk of less than 1 for both ingestion and dermal contact, indicating no significant health risks yet send strong signals to Governmental management of the Nyabarongo River. Overall water quality was classified as marginal in long dry, poor in short dry, good in long rain, and poor again in short rain seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat bran (WB) is a low-value by-product of the wheat milling industry. Solid-state fermentation with Rhizopus oligosporus is performed to improve WB's nutritional quality (RH). Twenty-five mice (11-week-old C57BL/6N male mice) were divided into three groups. The first group was fed a control diet (n = 8), the second group a 10% WB-supplemented diet (n = 8), and the last group had a 10% RH-supplemented diet (n = 9). The diet treatment was administered for 4 days before dextran sodium sulfate (DSS, 3% in drinking water) was administered for 9 days. RH supplementation prevented bodyweight loss and reduced the disease activity index in mice. An increase in the level of SCFAs in mouse intestines was detected post-RH supplementation, suggesting that SCFAs might have contributed to its anti-colitis effect. Metabolome analysis was conducted to explore other bioactive compounds in RH. R. oligosporus fermentation significantly increased the amounts of ergothioneine, arginine, branched-chain amino acids, and adenosine in wheat bran. All of these compounds are known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities. These bioactive compounds might also have contributed to the RH's ability to ameliorate DSS-induced colitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) fruit quality depends on many traits including visual, biochemical and mineral characteristics. One of the negative traits is aril whitening (AW) which is a frequently observed disorder in hot and dry climates, that leads to decline in desirable fruit quality. Color, antioxidant, and mineral contents of the arils are of prime importance as quality traits. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of shading and foliar minerals on fruit quality during the fruit development stages of pomegranate. Treatments included shaded (50% green net) and unshaded trees and foliar application of trees with potassium sulfate (K, 1% and 2%) or sodium silicate (Si, 0.05, 0.1 and 0.15%) during two growing seasons. Results showed that the severity of AW at harvest decreased significantly when trees were covered with shading compared to control. The color values of L* and ⁰hue for arils were lower in fruits grown under shading conditions indicating darker red arils. Shading significantly reduced chilling injury in cold storage compared to open field fruits. Shading and Si 0.15% increased superoxide dismutase, and catalase enzymes activity while decreased Polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase. Covering trees with shading and Si 0.15% spray resulted in the highest total anthocyanin, antioxidant activity, and total phenolics content in the arils. Shading as well as Si 0.15% increased macronutrients content of the arils. The study concluded that covering pomegranate trees and spraying with Si in hot climate reduced AW, increased antioxidant traits, and led to higher fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized inflammatory imbalance, intestinal epithelial mucosal damage, and dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. Polygonatum cyrtonema polysaccharides (PCPs) can regulate gut microbiota and inflammation. Here, the different doses of PCPs were administered to dextran sodium sulfate-induced UC mice, and the effects of the whole PCPs were compared with those of the fractionated fractions PCP-1 (19.9 kDa) and PCP-2 (71.6 and 4.2 kDa). Additionally, an antibiotic cocktail was administered to UC mice to deplete the gut microbiota, and PCPs were subsequently administered to elucidate the potential role of the gut microbiota in these mice. The results revealed that PCP treatment significantly optimized the lost weight and shortened colon, restored the balance of inflammation, mitigated oxidative stress, and restored intestinal epithelial mucosal damage. And, the PCPs exhibited superior efficacy in ameliorating these symptoms compared with PCP-1 and PCP-2. However, depletion of the gut microbiota diminished the therapeutic effects of PCPs in UC mice. Furthermore, fecal transplantation from PCP-treated UC mice to new UCafflicted mice produced therapeutic effects similar to PCP treatment. So, PCPs significantly ameliorated the symptoms, inflammation, oxidative stress, and intestinal mucosal damage in UC mice, and gut microbiota partially mediated these effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to investigate the aging mechanism of asphalt in the sea salt erosion environment from a rheological point of view. In order to simulate the real pavement aging process in the sea salt erosion environment, base asphalt and Styrene−Butadiene−Styrene (SBS)-modified asphalt were selected for salt environment aging tests. The asphalt samples were aged via a thin film oven test (TFOT) and a pressure aging vessel (PAV) test. Then, thermo-oxidizing conditions were created after the samples were immersed in salt solution, mixed with four different concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl) and sodium sulphate (Na2SO4), to investigate the aging state of asphalt. Temperature scan (TS), frequency scan (FS), and multiple stress creep and recovery (MSCR) tests performed using a Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) were used to investigate the effects on the rheological properties of aged asphalt in a salt environment. The results showed that both base asphalt and SBS-modified asphalt were aged to different degrees under mixed salt solutions. The two asphalt samples aged in a salt environment showed increased hardness. SBS-modified asphalt exhibited higher aging resistance compared with base asphalt in the sea salt environment. However, due to the degradation of the SBS modifier and the aging of base asphalt, the properties of the SBS-modified asphalt showed more obvious complexity with changes in salt solution concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]